October 24, 2003

Boise State Commemorates Days Of The Dead With Colorful Altars

Nov. 1 and 2 mark Días de los Muertos (Days of the Dead), when several colorful altars will be displayed on the Boise State University campus. The general public is invited to attend the free display. The Days of the Dead are traditionally observed in Mexico to honor those who have died, much as we celebrate Memorial Day. Día de los Angelitos, or Day of the Little Angels, is celebrated Nov. 1 to honor children who have died before the age of 5, while Día de los Muertos, Nov. 2, honors adults who have passed on. The holiday has been observed in Mexico since pre-Hispanic days and is based in Aztec and Mayan tradition. Families construct elaborate altars, laden with fruit, bread, drink and other items in remembrance of loved ones. It is believed that the souls of those who have died return to the home or grave for 24 hours each year, and families strive to make them feel welcome with lighted candles, flowers and decorations. Spanish professor Alicia Garza and her students construct an altar each year in the lobby of the modern languages and literatures department, L-140 on the west side of the Albertsons Library. The altar will be available for viewing from Oct. 28 through Nov. 3. A photo of last year’s altar can be seen at http://modlang.boisestate.edu/guide.htm under “Spanish Links.” In addition, several multi-ethnic student groups will prepare altars for display Oct. 30 through Nov. 4 in the Student Union Fireplace Lounge. Traditionally sponsored by the Organización Estudiantes Latino-Americanos (OELA), the event has been expanded to allow other cultures to also honor their deceased ancestors. The Boise State Cultural Center is co-sponsoring this event. To view a photo of last year’s altar, visit http://news.boisestate.edu/newsrelease/archive/2002/102002/1002dayofthedead.html. -30- Contacts Alicia Garza Ramon Silva Modern languages and literatures OELA adviser 208 426-1049 208 426-3038 Media Contact Kathleen Craven communications and marketing 208 426-3275